Udinese have welcomed the signing of Brazilian defender Neuton.

The defender, full name Neuton Sergio Piccoli, has joined the club to replace Cristian Zapata after his switch to Villarreal.

"Neuton is a player who we have followed for some time," Udinese sporting director Fabrizio Larini stated.

"He represents an investment for us today and, given his young age, also for the future," he underlined.

"He's naturally left-footed, a player who can be used in the middle of a three-man or a four-man defence. He can also be fielded at left-back if necessary.

"He won't be our last signing of the summer…"